Rep. Kellee Hennessy

Maddy summaryThis resolution expresses the Louisiana House of Representatives' condolences for the death of Derek Scott, the son of State Representative Rhonda Gaye Butler. It acknowledges Scott's life at St. Mary's Training School and his impact on his family and community. The document serves as a formal tribute rather than establishing new policy or regulations.

Maddy summaryThis resolution expresses condolences for the death of Joe R. Salter, a former Speaker of the Louisiana House of Representatives, and officially recognizes his contributions to the state. It acknowledges his long public service career, including his role as Speaker during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and Rita, and his subsequent work in various state government positions. The document records his notable accomplishments for posterity and extends appreciation to his family and the Louisiana community he served.

Maddy summaryHB 278 requires East Baton Rouge Parish Family Court to live stream all proceedings (including status conferences) online for public viewing, starting January 1, 2027. It mandates that costs for live streaming technology be covered by the Court Modernization and Technology Fund, not by court users. The bill also specifies that custody hearings may only be closed to the public if a judge finds good cause and all parties agree in writing. Minors in custody cases may use initials or pseudonyms during proceedings. This applies directly to East Baton Rouge Family Court operations and the public seeking access to court records.

Maddy summaryHB 849 establishes a statewide program requiring the Louisiana Department of Transportation to proactively maintain and repair interstate highway signs. The bill mandates regular cleaning, application of eco-friendly ceramic sealants to extend sign lifespan, real-time geotagged reporting of damaged signs, and submission of before/after photos for accountability. It directly affects the Department of Transportation and state/local highway maintenance agencies, applying to all regulatory (e.g., speed limits), warning (yellow diamond signs), and guide signs on interstates. Key provisions include safety protocols for maintenance crews, environmental considerations for cleaning methods, and requirements for detailed reporting to prioritize repairs and reduce long-term costs. The program aims to enhance road safety, improve public image, and achieve cost savings through systematic maintenance.

Maddy summaryHB 526 sets a $500,000 cap on general damages (such as pain and suffering) in personal injury lawsuits in Louisiana, unless specific exceptions apply. If a judge or jury finds a claimant has a severe mental injury impairing work or daily life, the cap increases to $1 million. The cap does not apply for cases involving permanent physical injuries (like loss of a limb, organ damage, or inability to care for oneself) or when the defendant acted intentionally or maliciously. These changes directly affect plaintiffs in civil lawsuits and defendants facing liability claims. The bill aims to limit financial exposure in certain injury cases while preserving exceptions for severe harm.

Maddy summaryHB 695 requires vehicle owners to obtain a permit from the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections before moving another vehicle with the owner's permission for non-business reasons (like helping a friend with a dead car). It mandates safety measures during such towing, including hazard lights, reflectors, visible signage, and proper equipment. Violating this rule results in a $1,000 fine payable to the Louisiana State Police. The bill directly affects residents who perform consensual noncommercial towing without a permit, making it unlawful without prior authorization from the state.

Maddy summaryHB 348 requires Louisiana insurance companies to obtain written consent from policyholders before sending nonrenewal or cancellation notices electronically. Without this prior written consent, any electronic notice sent would be considered invalid. The bill applies directly to insured individuals and their insurance providers in Louisiana, ensuring that electronic notices only occur with explicit agreement. It becomes effective January 1, 2027, and amends Louisiana Revised Statutes §22:1265(F) to establish this requirement.

Maddy summaryHB 329 amends Louisiana law to explicitly include "members of the United Cajun Navy" in the legal definition of "first responder." This change directly affects the United Cajun Navy, a registered nonprofit organization (charter #43009455N), by formally recognizing its members as first responders during emergencies. The bill updates existing statutes (R.S. 23:1017.1 and R.S. 29:723) to add the group to the list of qualified responders, alongside medical personnel, firefighters, and others. This is a definitional change only - no new funding, duties, or programs are created. The bill does not alter the responsibilities of first responders but ensures the United Cajun Navy is legally acknowledged in emergency response frameworks.

Maddy summaryThis bill (HCR 3) is a concurrent resolution directing the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) to amend rules governing outdoor advertising signs along highways. It requires increased spacing between signs (500-1,000 feet on most highways), bans stacked signs after July 31, 2025, and prohibits new permits for stacked configurations. The changes aim to reduce driver distractions and preserve scenic highway views, directly affecting billboard companies, property owners, and businesses that operate signage near roads. The resolution modifies existing DOTD rules to align with safety and beautification goals under the Highway Beautification Act. Note: The bill’s title incorrectly references SNAP benefits; the actual content addresses outdoor advertising regulations.

Maddy summaryThis resolution commends Patricia Lowrey-Dufour upon her retirement as the senior legislative analyst for the House Committee on House and Governmental Affairs with House Legislative Services. It formally recognizes her nearly four decades of dedicated service to the Louisiana Legislature, acknowledging her expertise and significant contributions to the institution.